TEST: Mackie 1608

 There are things that you see coming. Or at least one believes that a product of some kind with a certain design could appear in a timely manner. During my last European tour, I first became aware of a monitor sound man who suddenly appeared next to me during the sound check with an iPad in his hand and asked about the mixing ratio in the wedges. After the answer was given, he briefly tapped on the tablet, checked the result and turned to the next actor. I admit, I was impressed.

After the home PC or Mac became firmly established a few years ago as an integral part, even as a control center in every recording studio, it was only a matter of time before an ambitious manufacturer aimed for the next level of CPU-managed control technology. Now it has happened, the engineers from Mackie have discovered IOS and, with it, Apple's tablet technology as a control unit and designed a corresponding mixer. Off to new shores, the location-independent FOH is just a few swipes away.



construction

Strictly speaking, the Mackie DL 1608 is no longer a mixing console, but rather a dock that holds the aforementioned iPad. With the exception of the hardware gain controls, this controls all parameters within the mix, be it volumes, filters, effects or dynamics. The sound man now has the opportunity to leave his seat with the iPad in his hand and optimize the sound anywhere in the room via a WiFi connection to the mixer dock. You are finally decoupled from the mixer hardware, which also means that you can park the mixer dock somewhere in the room where it is least disruptive and, armed only with an iPad, you can work at the optimal starting point for the mix. So if there's a guy next to you armed with an iPad, don't immediately report to the hall steward that a visitor is making illegal concert recordings, it could also be the hall mixer.

The product, manufactured in Mexico, leaves a good impression in terms of workmanship. The construction is massive, and the weight of just under 3.2 kilograms can be described as very moderate considering its technical capabilities. Regarding its connection peripherals, the device has 16 Neutrik XLR inputs, which are equipped with microphone preamplifiers from the Onyx series, with channels 13-16 designed as combination sockets for additional line signals. One main output, phantom power, an on/off switch, the connection for the included power supply, RJ45 Ethernet connection socket and a Kensigton theft protection, that would be fine if there weren't 6 individual aux sends, one of the highlights of the product. Considering the fact that up to 10 iPads can be docked via WLAN, new ways of monitoring open up. Provided you have enough separate signal paths, each artist can set their own monitor sound using the iPad via those sends on stage. A dream becomes true.

The dock station (I always want to say desk, but it's not one without the iPad...) provides an intelligent connection between a digital desk and the iPad, the missing link that many users are longingly waiting for. The iPad handles all signal processing; only the catch-up amplifier is managed via the dock hardware. The internal iPad DSP power generates a four-band filter, a complete gate and compressor section for each channel and a delay or a reverb algorithm as room effects. For the aux sends and the master out, Mackie provides another 31-band graphic EQ plus a dynamic section consisting of a compressor and limiter.



Practice

The iPad is anchored using a guide carriage and locked with the included holders. In this position it is also charged simultaneously during operation. The holder fits perfectly, nothing wobbles or has even the slightest play. You can now download the Master Fader app, which is needed to control the system, from the Apple App Store. After installing the application, an eight-channel mixer opens, which can be browsed through the various levels of channel editing using the iPad's well-known swiping gestures. In addition to the respective line fader, the basic settings include a solo, mute, channel and EQ button, as well as a panorama fader. The channel names can be assigned individually and even supplemented with photos. With a swipe gesture you can reach channels 9-16 and the signal returns. The generated mix can also be recorded as a WAV file using a built-in record button.

As always with Apple, setting up the WLAN network is easy, but all other commercially available routers are also supported. Mackie recommends the 802.11n standard due to the higher transmission values, but functionality is also granted down to the 802.11g standard. We explicitly point out that the encryption is intact, unless you want to hand over control of your desk into the hands of unauthorized people in WLAN mode.

The next level shows the filter area, which is presented very clearly and tastefully in color. With a light swipe you can seamlessly go to the next channel to start editing it. Once you get used to this type of work, you flip through the hierarchy of the app like you would in any other app. Of course, the separation of the mixing console and filter section via the hierarchy levels initially requires a different type of finger movement, but it is surprising how quickly you feel at home. The indirect access options feared by many traditionally analogue sound people are just a matter of practice. Within a short time you get used to the workaround and everything else works as if by itself. For this very reason, a lot of emphasis was placed on making the feel as “analog-like” as possible. Of course you can't conjure up a three-dimensional curvature from the display, but all faders want to be centered and pulled. There are no unwanted jumps in the signal flow due to inaccurate finger movements.

As with digital consoles, snapshots, recalls and presets are a powerful tool and the first choice to prevent chaos, especially at festival conditions. In the past, pen and paper were often used, and later photographs with the iPhone were used to archive the current settings (if the support band conditions were unfavorable, 75% of the desk was often taped off - "Keep your hands away from these channels otherwise your tour is over") Before the next sound man messes up the console completely, you can at least save your personal settings this way, provided the stage manager hasn't changed everything on the multicore again.
In terms of sound, there is nothing to complain about in the design, as long as you want to generate neutral sounds with almost no coloring. You'll deliberately look in vain for the tonal peculiarities of old analog classics here, but it seems to me only a matter of time until Mackie software updates in the form of Neve, SSL, Focusrite or whatever channel strip emulations are available, as long as the iPad offers them provides the necessary computing power. Filter a kick via SSL, but a Neve snare? Why not, the possibilities would be varied.



Conclusion

All due respect, Mackie has managed to bring a coherent, interesting and highly innovative concept to market maturity, which, in my opinion, will take off in no time and bring a lot of clones onto the scene. However, as is often the case, it will probably happen that the innovator will remain the measure of all things, provided he updates his concept at regular intervals. Only the availability of the current iPad as a control unit can be determined for just a few years in advance, but the next dock generation will definitely be available by then.

Hardware, software and the merger with the current iPad have the potential to be an absolute classic, nothing that couldn't be fixed or improved with a software update. Just because of the idea and the successful implementation, from my side, the highest score!

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Additional Informations:

In recent years, the integration of iPads with professional audio equipment has revolutionized the way sound engineers and musicians interact with their gear. Among the key players in this technological evolution is Mackie, a renowned name in the audio industry. Mackie has embraced the power of iPads, offering a range of products that seamlessly integrate with these devices to enhance functionality, mobility, and user experience. This article explores the various ways iPads collaborate with Mackie audio products, delving into the benefits, technology, practical applications, and real-world use cases.

#### The Evolution of Mackie Audio Products

Mackie, a brand under the Loud Technologies Inc. umbrella, has been at the forefront of audio innovation since its inception in 1988. Known for its high-quality mixers, speakers, and recording equipment, Mackie has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in audio technology. The company’s commitment to innovation is evident in its embrace of digital technology and integration with modern devices like the iPad.

#### Key Mackie Products Compatible with iPads

1. **DL Series Digital Mixers**: The Mackie DL Series digital mixers are among the most notable products that showcase the seamless integration with iPads. Models like the DL1608 and DL32R are designed to be controlled entirely via iPad, providing a powerful and flexible mixing solution.

2. **ProDX Series**: The ProDX series, including the ProDX4 and ProDX8, are compact digital mixers that can be controlled wirelessly via an iPad. These mixers are perfect for small venues, solo artists, and podcasters who need a simple yet powerful mixing solution.

3. **SRM Flex**: The SRM Flex portable column PA system also integrates with iPads for easy control and customization of sound settings. This product is ideal for mobile DJs, musicians, and public speakers who need a portable and versatile PA system.

4. **Onyx Series USB Interfaces**: Mackie’s Onyx Series USB interfaces, such as the Onyx Producer 2·2 and Onyx Artist 1·2, offer seamless iPad connectivity for high-quality recording and playback. These interfaces are perfect for musicians and home studio enthusiasts who need reliable and high-fidelity audio capture.

#### Benefits of iPad Integration with Mackie Products

1. **Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility**: One of the most significant advantages of using an iPad with Mackie products is the enhanced mobility and flexibility it offers. Sound engineers and musicians can control their audio equipment from anywhere in the venue, allowing for more precise adjustments and a better overall mix.

2. **Intuitive Touch Interface**: The iPad’s touch interface is highly intuitive, making it easier for users to navigate complex audio settings and make real-time adjustments. This is particularly beneficial in live sound environments where quick and accurate changes are crucial.

3. **Remote Control**: The ability to control Mackie products remotely via an iPad adds a new level of convenience. Engineers can adjust sound settings while walking around the venue, ensuring that the audio quality is consistent across different areas.

4. **Space and Cost Efficiency**: Integrating an iPad with Mackie products can reduce the need for bulky hardware, saving space and potentially lowering costs. This is especially advantageous for small venues, home studios, and mobile setups.

5. **Advanced Features and Customization**: Mackie’s iPad-compatible products often come with dedicated apps that offer advanced features and customization options. Users can save presets, apply effects, and tweak settings with precision, all from the convenience of their iPad.

#### Technology Behind iPad Integration

The seamless integration between iPads and Mackie audio products is made possible by several key technologies:

1. **Wireless Networking**: Most Mackie products that integrate with iPads use Wi-Fi for wireless control. The iPad connects to the mixer or audio device via a local Wi-Fi network, allowing for real-time adjustments without the need for physical connections.

2. **Dedicated Apps**: Mackie provides dedicated apps for iPad control, such as the Master Fader app for DL Series mixers and the SRM Flex Connect app for the SRM Flex PA system. These apps are designed to offer a user-friendly interface and robust functionality, mirroring the physical controls of the hardware.

3. **Digital Signal Processing (DSP)**: The core functionality of Mackie’s digital mixers and audio devices relies on DSP technology. The DSP handles audio processing, effects, and routing, with the iPad serving as a control surface to adjust these parameters.

4. **Bluetooth Connectivity**: Some Mackie products, like the ProDX series, utilize Bluetooth for wireless control and audio streaming. This allows for easy setup and operation, particularly for smaller gigs and mobile applications.

#### Practical Applications

1. **Live Sound Mixing**: In live sound environments, the ability to control Mackie mixers with an iPad is invaluable. Engineers can move around the venue, making adjustments based on how the sound is perceived in different areas. This mobility ensures a consistent and high-quality audio experience for the audience.

2. **Studio Recording**: For studio recording, Mackie’s Onyx Series USB interfaces paired with an iPad offer a portable and powerful solution. Musicians and producers can record, edit, and mix tracks with ease, leveraging the iPad’s intuitive interface and the high-quality audio capture of Mackie interfaces.

3. **Mobile DJing and Events**: Mackie’s portable PA systems like the SRM Flex, when controlled via iPad, provide DJs and event hosts with a flexible and powerful audio solution. The ability to make real-time adjustments and customize sound settings on-the-fly is particularly beneficial for dynamic event environments.

4. **Educational Settings**: Music and audio production schools can benefit from Mackie’s iPad-compatible products by providing students with hands-on experience using modern technology. The intuitive control interfaces and advanced features make it easier for students to learn the intricacies of sound engineering and mixing.

#### Real-World Use Cases

1. **Concert Venues**: Many concert venues have adopted Mackie’s DL Series digital mixers for their live sound setups. The ability to control the mix from an iPad allows engineers to ensure that the sound quality is optimized for every corner of the venue, enhancing the audience’s experience.

2. **Houses of Worship**: In houses of worship, where volunteers often manage sound systems, Mackie’s iPad-controlled mixers provide an accessible and user-friendly solution. The intuitive interface and preset functionalities allow for consistent and high-quality sound, regardless of the operator’s experience level.

3. **Corporate Events**: For corporate events and conferences, Mackie’s portable PA systems like the SRM Flex offer a convenient and effective solution. The iPad control allows event organizers to manage audio settings effortlessly, ensuring clear and professional sound throughout the event.

4. **Home Studios**: Home studio owners benefit greatly from the integration of Mackie interfaces with iPads. The combination of high-quality audio capture and intuitive control makes it easier for musicians to produce professional-grade recordings without the need for extensive and expensive hardware setups.

#### Challenges and Considerations

While the integration of iPads with Mackie products offers numerous benefits, there are some challenges and considerations to keep in mind:

1. **Network Reliability**: A stable and robust Wi-Fi network is essential for uninterrupted control. Network dropouts can disrupt the connection between the iPad and the audio device, potentially causing issues during live performances or recordings.

2. **Learning Curve**: Users accustomed to traditional hardware controls may experience a learning curve when transitioning to iPad-based control. However, most Mackie apps are designed to be user-friendly, and the benefits often outweigh the initial adjustment period.

3. **Battery Life**: Managing the iPad’s battery life is crucial, especially during long sessions or live performances. It’s important to have a charging solution readily available and to monitor battery levels to prevent unexpected shutdowns.

4. **Software Updates and Compatibility**: Regular updates to both the Mackie hardware firmware and the iPad apps are necessary to ensure compatibility and access to new features. Staying up-to-date with the latest versions can prevent technical issues and improve functionality.

#### Conclusion

The collaboration between iPads and Mackie audio products represents a significant advancement in the audio industry. This integration offers unparalleled mobility, flexibility, and functionality, transforming the workflow of sound engineers, musicians, and event organizers. From live sound mixing and studio recording to mobile DJing and educational applications, the synergy between iPads and Mackie products enhances the overall audio experience.

As technology continues to evolve, we can expect further improvements and even more seamless integration between mobile devices and professional audio equipment. Mackie’s commitment to innovation ensures that their products will remain at the forefront of this exciting technological landscape, providing users with powerful and intuitive solutions for all their audio needs.